Twin Crowns Series Review (by Katherine Webber and Catherine Doyle)

Hello dearest book readers,

The "Twin Crowns Trilogy" consists of three young adult novels by Catherine Webber and Catherine Doyle, each written in a simple, accessible style that makes for an easy and engaging read. The series follows the journey of twin sisters who were separated at birth and reunite just before they turn 18. One sister is raised by the enemy of the other, though neither knows that they share a common foe. As the series progresses, the twins gradually learn who they can trust and who they cannot, all while facing the challenge of proving themselves worthy to rule their kingdom. A significant part of the storyline involves an ancient curse tied to their ancestors and the first twin queens of their kingdom, which looms over them throughout the series.

The trilogy also introduces several characters who play important roles later in the books. Recently, it was revealed that the series will expand beyond the initial three books, with a fourth and fifth book in the works. These upcoming books will focus on two side characters introduced earlier: King Alaric of Jevra, a character present from the first book but more on the periphery, and Marino Pegassi, the brother of one of the twin sisters’ best friends. Although the series was originally presented as a trilogy, these additional books seem to serve as spin-offs rather than a continuation of the main storyline.

In my opinion, while the main trilogy effectively follows the twins from their 18th year until the curse is lifted, these additional books could be considered sequels or side stories rather than part of the central trilogy.

As for the series itself, I found it an enjoyable and straightforward read, especially suited for fans of YA literature, magic, witches, and curses. It's a great escape into a world of fantasy. Here's how I would rate the trilogy overall:

- The first book Twin Crowns: I would give this a 3 to 3.5-star rating. It was a solid start, but not exceptional.

Review can be found here

- The second book Cursed Crowns: This was my least favorite. It felt too long, and one of the twin sisters, who makes a series of frustrating mistakes, particularly annoyed me. Even when she begins to face the consequences of her actions in the later books, it feels a bit too late.

Review can be found here

- The third book Burning Crowns: This was my favorite, especially because it delved into the history of their ancestors and the curse, and expanded the world to include other nations, even though this world-building came somewhat late in the series.

Review can be found here

Overall, I'd rate the series as a 3-star read. While the first and last books stood out, with the last being my ultimate favorite due to its connections to the past, the second book fell short for me.

I'll be linking separate reviews for each book below. If you haven’t read the series or are planning to, please be aware that the reviews may contain spoilers. I’ll make sure to include spoiler alerts and highlight any major plot twists before diving into the full reviews to avoid ruining the experience for new readers.

Twin Crowns Book #1 Plot:

Bestselling authors, Catherine Doyle and Katherine Webber, joined forces on an utterly compelling YA romantic fantasy bursting with high-stakes adventure and crossover appeal about twin princesses separated at birth.

“Twin Crowns cast a spell on me from the very first pages with its glittering blend of harrowing adventure, charming wit, and intricate world-building. Add in delightful romance and two unforgettable narrators, and I was thoroughly bewitched by this marvelous book! Don’t miss it!” – Sarah J Maas, #1 New York Times Bestselling Author

Two sisters. One throne. Who will ultimately rise to power and wear the crown?

Wren Greenrock has always known that one day she would steal her sister’s place in the palace. Trained from birth to avenge her parents’ murder and usurp the princess, she will do anything to rise to power and protect the community of witches she loves.

Princess Rose Valhart knows that with power comes responsibility including marriage into a brutal kingdom. Life outside the palace walls is a place to be feared and she is soon to discover that it’s wilder than she ever imagined.

Twin sisters separated at birth and raised into entirely different worlds are about to get to know each other’s lives a whole lot better…

An irresistible fantasy romantic comedy from two YA superstars – perfect for fans of Stephanie Garber, Sarah J Maas and Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander.

Cursed Crowns Book #2 Plot:

Twin queens Wren and Rose have claimed their crowns . . . but not everyone is happy about witches sitting on Eana’s throne.

Cool-headed Rose sets off on a Royal Tour to win over the doubters, but soon finds herself drawn to the Sunkissed Kingdom. Here secrets are revealed about those closest to her, and Rose finds her loyalties divided.

Meanwhile rebellious Wren steals away to the icy north to rescue their beloved grandmother, Banba. But when she accepts King Alarik’s deadly magical bargain in exchange for Banba’s freedom, the spell has unexpected – and far-reaching – consequences . . .

As an ancient curse begins to arise from the darkness, the sisters must come together and unite the crown. Their lives – and the future of Eana – depend on it.

Break the ice to free the curse,

Kill one twin to save another . . .

Burning Crowns Book #3 Plot:

Wren and Rose rule the kingdom of Eana. But an ancient, powerful enemy moves in the shadows. Oonagh, the twins’ evil undead ancestor, is creating a terrifying army, and she is determined to fight for the throne.

Rose must gather support from the four corners of the kingdom whilst she wrestles with what the future holds for her and her beloved Shen. Meanwhile, Wren and Alarik set out to destroy the curse that both unites and weakens them. Caught between the King of Gevra and his Captain of the Guard, Tor, Wren must decide where her heart truly lies …

When Oonagh's true plans are revealed and Rose's life hangs in the balance, the stage for the final battle is set. Sacrifices will be made, blood will be spilled. Who will survive to rule the kingdom of Eana?

The epic, breathtaking conclusion to this bestselling romantasy trilogy!